September 17, 2026
By: CBC Foundation
Grocery Store Rivals Fareway and Hy-Vee Team Up as Co-Title Sponsors for 15th Annual Wild Boar Challenge
Get ready to get muddy for a good cause! The 15th annual Wild Boar Challenge, a premier off-road obstacle course event hosted by the CBC Foundation, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at Wildwood Hills Ranch.
This year’s event features a unique partnership on and off the course: competing Midwest grocery leaders Fareway and Hy-Vee have joined forces as co-title sponsors. While usually competing for shopper loyalty in the grocery aisles, both corporate powerhouses are putting rivalry aside to unite behind a shared mission—supporting Iowa’s vulnerable and at-risk youth.
“For 15 years, the Wild Boar Challenge has demonstrated what’s possible when Iowans come together to support our communities,” said Zach Vande Weerd, CBC Foundation organizer. “Having Fareway and Hy-Vee join us side-by-side as co-title sponsors underscores the deep commitment both organizations have to Iowa families. It’s an incredible example of community over competition, and we are thrilled to have them leading the charge.”
![Wild Boar Challenge mascot]()
Course and Event Highlights
Organizers expect more than 500 racers to challenge themselves on the rugged 5+ mile terrain. Designed in collaboration with past participants, the course features classic physical challenges like hay bales, log crossings and creeks, along with crowd-favorite obstacles like the "Pig Prod," "Big Bad Wolf," and "Pork Sliders". Volunteers from Pizza Ranch are assisting with course preparation, while the St. Charles Fire Department will be on site to keep the track slick and muddy.
Following the race, participants can enjoy a post-event celebration featuring live music, food and beverages courtesy of the Hy-Vee, Fareway, Doolittle Farm, Culligan Water and The Outside Scoop. Mascot Willy The Wild Boar will also be available for photos.
![Wild Boar Challenge race start]()
Supporting Iowa Youth
All funds raised stay in Iowa to directly benefit Wildwood Hills Ranch, an organization that delivers life-changing educational programming, leadership development and equine therapy to vulnerable youth. Through long-term community support, the CBC Foundation has raised more than $1,000,000 for local youth organizations.
Sponsorship opportunities and volunteer positions remain open for local businesses and individuals looking to contribute.
Event Details
- What: Wild Boar Challenge, an off-road obstacle course event
- When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at 8 a.m. (for check-in)
- Where: Wildwood Hills Ranch, 2552 Union Lane, St. Charles, Iowa 50240
- Entry Fee: $80 through race day – carload discounts available
- Registration & Info: wildboarchallenge.org
About the Wild Boar Challenge
The Wild Boar Challenge is an off-road obstacle course designed to test participants' speed and agility. This local, non-profit event is run by a local organization, and the funds raised stay in Iowa.
About the CBC Foundation
The CBC Foundation is a charitable fund organized by the Contributors Breakfast Club. It is a donor-advised fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines.
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